Skinner backs Toone after her stunner against Brighton

Manchester United Women drew 2-2 with the Seagulls and, despite being disappointed with the result overall, Skinner was quick to praise Reds midfielder Toone after the match's conclusion.

When United trailed 1-0, the England international picked the ball up on the edge of the box and fired an effort into the top corner, giving former Reds goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley no chance.

In his post-match interview, Skinner was keen to point out that Toone's quality should never have been doubted, after our no.7 notched for the first time in the WSL this term.

"Ella is a key player for us regardless but I think Tooney needs to be in those positions more," said Marc to MUTV.

"She scores that goal because she caresses the ball in, she doesn’t try to overhit it and it’s that detail that takes her beyond Baggers [Sophie Baggaley] in goal.

"There is no problem [with Ella]. Everyone makes out that she hasn’t scored in this long but class is permanent.

"She will keep showing that and she will keep turning up for us."

Speaking to MUTV after her goal against Brighton, Toone said: "It's been a long time without a goal and for me I want to be a player that scores and assists.

"It's been difficult for me and I help the team in different ways. I have learned that it is not always about scoring or assisting. It's about how hard you work for the team. Getting on the ball and creating chances.

"But tonight I am very happy to get myself on the scoresheet and hopefully I can continue to do that."

Toone made history in April 2022 when she became the first-ever United Women player to reach 100 appearances for the club.

Just months after this, our no.7 scored in the final as England Lionesses won Euro 2022.

Still just 24, Ella's best years remain ahead of her and, having signed a new contract at United last November, she hopes to achieve further success at her childhood club.